[paul386]

Originally Posted by Lotus7

The initial torque is applied to center the (floating) wheels and to "seat" the conical taper lug bolts. This should be done before any vertical load is placed on the wheel. 10lb./ft. applied in a "star"pattern, is more than enough to keep the wheel centered when the load is re-applied by lowering the car.

The rear wheels could be fully torqued while being held motionless with the E-brake, BUT the front wheels will just spin (the transfer case clutch is disengaged so the front wheels "freewheel") unless you have a second person in the car standing on the service brakes. However, it's never a good idea to apply a lot of rotational torque to a wheel of a vehicle that's supported on a jack. That rotational torque translates into thrust that tries to move the vehicle.

With the E-brake on, the opposite side wheel "chocked", and the tire loaded, you can safely torque the bolts on any wheel completely.

Makes sense.